The BC Ferry & Marine Workers’ Union (BCFMWU) has announced that its members employed at Hullo Ferries are preparing to vote on whether to go on strike.
Despite the BCFMWU’s proposal for a contract regarding wages and benefits nearly a year ago, the private foot-passenger-only ferry service has not yet reached an agreement with its workers.
BCFMWU President Eric McNeely expressed disappointment, stating that the prolonged delay has left the workers with no alternative but to consider strike action.
In response to the lack of progress in negotiations, Hullo Ferries has declared an impasse, prompting the union to initiate a strike vote.
McNeely criticized the employer’s stance, citing the impasse declaration as a signal of their lack of commitment to a fair resolution.
In an effort to resume discussions and achieve a mutually beneficial agreement, McNeely emphasized the importance of Hullo Ferries returning to the bargaining table to negotiate in good faith.
Last September, the workers chose to affiliate with the BC Ferry and Maritime Workers Union, aligning themselves with the larger labor organization.
Hullo Ferries, which initiated its operations in August 2023, provides ferry services between downtown Vancouver and downtown Nanaimo on Vancouver Island.
1130 NewsRadio has reached out to both Hullo Ferries and the BCFMWU for additional insights.